Portrait of Kazunori Maeiwa
i. Biography
Kazunori Maeiwa is chef of élan vital in Tokyo and owner-chef of Sushi Akira, a role he has held since 2019. He has also worked as chef at Sushisho Masa.
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Coming Up
Sushi training with the Sushi Takumi group sits at the start of Kazunori Maeiwa’s career, before a move into the kitchen at Sushisho Masa. Those early posts frame the line of work now associated with Sushi Akira, where he has been owner-chef since 2019, alongside his role at élan vital.
Where They Are Now
Since 2019, Maeiwa has been owner-chef at Sushi Akira in Tokyo. He also serves as chef of élan vital in Tokyo, Japan, the current role that defines his public standing.
Honors
Kazunori's honors include Opinionated About Dining, Top 500 in Japan (2025), Opinionated About Dining, Recommended (2023), and Silver Tabelog Award.
FAQ
Asked of Kazunori
Where did Kazunori Maeiwa work before?
Kazunori Maeiwa's earlier career included Sushi Takumi group and Sushisho Masa.
What recognition has Kazunori Maeiwa received?
Opinionated About Dining, Top 500 in Japan (2025).
The Sunday email
Read about chefs like Kazunori Maeiwa in the Sunday email.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.